British blues rock guitarist Jack J Hutchinson has crash landed in the Official UK Charts with his new album ‘Battle Scars’. The 10 track live record, which was recorded on his UK Tour this year, hit number 4 in the Official Blues Chart, as well as number 16 in the Independent Album Breakers Chart.

In doing so, he becomes the first ever independent blues musician from Burnley to have a top 5 album in the Official Blues Chart.

Hutchinson comments: “I have been blown away by the response to the new album. Being an independent artist with no label or management backing makes it that little bit more special. The album was recorded on a tour where we played lots of grassroots venues across the UK, so it almost feels like a victory for them too. There is no massive financial backing behind what we do – just a very loyal fan base that are devoted to supporting live music. They also have a passion for physical albums, particularly vinyl, and it was their support that led to the chart success. They have been incredible and are what keep us going.”

The live album was recorded at two shows – The Grace in London and Tuesday Night Music Club, Couldson. It features Phil Wilson on drums and Greg Smith on bass and was mixed by Andy Banfield at SuperFly Studios in Nottinghamshire.

“When I started out playing social clubs in Burnley I couldn’t have dreamt that one day I’d have an album featuring 10 songs I’ve written in the charts. It’s been a long journey, but I’m really proud of what me and the band have achieved in the last few years.”

This includes multiple headline tours of Europe, plus shows in America and Brazil. Hutchinson has also supported acts like FM, King King and Ocean Colour Scene’s Steve Cradock, and played festivals alongside BlackBerry Smoke, the Black Crowes’ Chris Robinson and Jeff Beck.

He is currently recording his fifth studio album at Momentum Studios, Plymouth, with producer Josiah J Manning, and will be hitting the road in support of the release throughout 2026.

2026 Tour Dates

31 January – Planet Rock Winter’s End, Trecco Bay
7 March – Steelpaws Festival, Glossop
27 March – Birdwell Venue, Barnsley *
17 April – Anarchy Brewery, Newcastle *
6 June – The Muse, Brecon
19 June – LoveRocks Festival, Bournemouth
9 August – Firevolt Festival, Manchester
29 August – Rock The Peaks Festival
12 September – Destination Forge, Sheffield
13 September – HRH Blues, Sheffield

* Supporting Chantel McGregor